Mental May
This month we are focusing our energy towards lifting our mental states. While the premise of taking care of our mental health lies in the mind— we want to expand into the idea that mental health doesn't just exist in the head. But rather, its a full body experience.
We have more nerves in our belly than our brain. Caring for our "mental" health really lands in tending to our vessels as a WHOLE.
Think of yourself as an ECOSYSTEM. Like in any ecosystem, there are multiple parts that need seen, thanked, and cared for. Often times when we get good at focusing on one area, other areas suffer. When we can see ourselves as an ecosystem, we hold a balance for all parts. Allowing the eb and flow. Pouring into to all parts in a steady way so that we can find equilibirum.
We invite you this month to make a list of ways that you nourish yourself as a whole. Once you can see the ways, now thinking about mixing mediums. If walking helps you take care of your body, can you leave your phone at home to take care of your mind?
Work to create dynamic wellness practices that allow what you pour in to yourself to nourish on all fronts.
We love you.
Spread the love.
During the month of May we are gifting free class cards to our community. We ask that you take one card during the month and gift it to someone you feel would benefit — could be a regular of the Space or someone new. In-house only.
Rally with us.
Our first Union class of the year is raising funds for the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Michigan (NAMI).
This class was inspired by the personal ties both Lauren and Alyssa have to mental health, whether that has been navigating their own mental health or being a witness and supporting a loved one going through their mental health journey. We know the topic of mental health can’t be covered in just one class, and we hope that this is a catalyst for you to check in with yourself and ask “how is my heart, really?” or feel called to check in on a friend or family member. We hope this class is a reminder that you matter. Your voice, your presence matters and that there is a community here supporting you.
The class will start with Lauren leading 45 minutes of Release style movement to let go of stuck energy sitting within the body. Then it will be followed by 30 minutes of restorative movement guided by Alyssa, to bring you inward, and draw intentional awareness to the heart and mind.
May 13, 2023 at 930a.
Book to hold your spot on MindBody. $20 minimum donation. You can choose to give more on MindBody, or we will also collect money the day of. All proceeds will go directly to the NAMI.
MENTAL GAME STRONG
We asked our teachers some of their favorite rituals that care for their mental wellbeing and we pulled a few of the things they said for you.
Music!! A necessity for a clear headspace for me.
- Skylar Dixon
Grab coffee/dinner with a friend and have a good, vulnerable conversation.
- Alyssa Dorchak
My morning routine : wake up & move to another room. Sip & savor coffee. Light a candle & Palo Santo. Read the daily entry in “Journey to the Heart” by Melody Beattie & journal a reflection. Read or guidance cards depending on time.
- Lindsay Stollenwerk
Making my bed. Completing a task big or small feels fulfilling to me. Staring off the day with a small task is very rewarding and makes me WANT to be productive as I go through my day!
- Colbie Harris
I like to take hot, salty, oily baths and I prioritize my sleep (as much as I can with two toddlers).
- Rachel Kovelle
Boundaries around social media, especially in the morning.
- Myra Chopp
Saying no to things that are not light.
- Ali Walker
Cooking one of my favorite meals homemade.
- Lauren Booth
Resting without judgement.
- Reilly Butler
40 minutes in my infrared sauna does a world of difference for my mental game. I became addicted using the Red Room at the Space and now it’s a daily practice for me.
- Liv Monte
I wake up slowly, go for a long walk with my dog, and relax on the couch and read a book with a calming candle lit.
- Nikki Finch
Shifting the energy from my emotional body, through my physical body, is always a good idea.
- Hayley Pierzynski
Micro-Meditations. Making something into a meditation...I do this with and without activity. Sometimes it's pausing and doing a few rounds of box breath, sometimes it's turning off the radio between highway exits while I'm driving and being in silence.
- Brenann Woodruff
I routinely take a late night shower right before going to bed. I envision the moments throughout the day that I don’t want to hold onto and imagine them being washed off my body.
- Olivia McMullen
Music to lift you.
A playlist made for you to elevate your mood. For the morning, for the drive home, for anytime you wish.
Can you make one small promise to yourself for the next 30 days? Something that fuels you and gives you a moment of connection with yourself each and everyday. Nourishment for your ecosystem.
Here are a few ideas :
2 minutes of eye contact with you in the AM
A walk outside with no phone
Earthing— bare feet on the earth
Calling someone and tell them something you love about them
Schedule yourself a self-care treatment — a massage or a coaching session perhaps!
5 minutes of journaling first thing in the AM or before lights out at night
Take a class and bring your journal
Make a nourishing meal and thank the origins of the food
There are so many ways to slow down and care for your vessel. We tend to overcomplicate it. Notice if you feel a need to perfect these practices, and see if you can give yourself permission to do your best. Softening around it all so that you can eb and flow.
We love you, we hope to see you so soon.
